PATNA: Breaking the silence surrounding mental health is the most effective tool in preventing suicide, experts emphasized during a poignant awareness programme held at JD Women’s College on Thursday. Observed in line with World Suicide Prevention Day, the event aimed to dismantle the stigma associated with emotional distress and foster a culture of open communication among the youth.
The programme, a collaborative effort between the college’s psychology department and its mental health and wellness cell, centered on this year’s global theme: “Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation.” The initiative sought to empower students to seek help proactively and to act as empathetic pillars of support for their peers.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Shubham Shri, a psychiatrist from IGIMS, underscored the life-saving potential of timely intervention. He noted that the act of listening—truly and without judgment—can be a lifeline for someone teetering on the edge of despair.
“Timely communication and active, empathetic listening are not just social graces; they are critical components of suicide prevention,” Dr. Shri stated. He urged the student body to shed the fear of social judgment and to cultivate an environment where reaching out for professional or personal help is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness. He further encouraged students to remain vigilant and responsive when a friend or family member shows signs of emotional struggle.
Echoing these sentiments, College Principal Meera Kumari framed the issue as a profound collective responsibility. “Suicide prevention is far more than a medical or clinical concern; it is a fundamental social obligation,” she remarked. She stressed that educational institutions must evolve into safe havens where young people feel comfortable articulating their internal conflicts. By fostering an atmosphere of transparency and kindness, the college aims to ensure that no student suffers in isolation.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from approximately 50 students, who engaged in creative exercises designed to spark dialogue around mental well-being. A vibrant poster competition and an insightful essay contest served as platforms for students to express their views on emotional health. In the essay category, Manvi Singh, Piyushi Das, and Sneha Gupta were recognized for their compelling arguments and reflections. The poster competition, which highlighted the urgency of mental health awareness through visual art, saw Ari Arisha Abrar, Ragini, and Divya Bharti secure the top positions.
The programme was coordinated by Brijbala Shah, with Sneha Agrawal serving as the organizing secretary. As the event concluded, the underlying message remained clear: by normalizing conversations about mental health today, society can build a more resilient future where help is always accessible and no one feels forced to suffer in silence.
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